By Moses Ojewumi, Media Officer, Gateway United
Gateway United held J Atete FC to a goalless draw in 2020/2021 Nigeria National League, NNL matchday 3 clash at Otujeremi Stadium, Delta State.
Hakeem Busari made four changes to the squad that defeated Crown FC on matchday 2 with Nurudeen Araromi, Okunbor Bankole, Durojaiye Azeez and Bakare Fatai starting.
It was a blistering start for both teams but the visitors had the first attempt at goal in the 6th minute when Seyi Okeowo shot directly at goalkeeper, Joke Efowhera.
Gateway continued dominating play but clear cut chances became hard to come by. Against the run of play, the hosts created a scare with a cross that nearly connected with Edjeba’s head.
The Ogun State-based team responded with the finest of chances in the first half when Fatai Bakare collected the ball from the edge of Atete’s box but aimed inches wide of goal. In quick succession, Seyi Okeowo lost his marker at the left flank with dazzling step-overs but the hosts’ defence gave his cross a block.
Proceedings resumed in the second half with the hosts waxing stronger keeping Gateway United clearing to safety in dangerous areas. Their threats waned with the pace of Sunkanmi Odusina and sub-Tunde Akinsemoyin who almost became unplayable for Atete’s defence.
The defence was well marshalled by Oluwole James and the goalie Ibukun Araromi who ensured J Atete’s efforts for an opener were all to no avail.
With this draw, Hakeem Busari boys picked a vital away point with a total of 4 points, the same points with J Atete who was topping the group B2 Southern Conference before the matchday 3 encounter.
Gateway will next square up with Apex Krane FC that pipped Holy Arrows 1-nil this midweek, at MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta on Saturday 27th February 2021.
